Host institution/organization in Japan:
Kyushu University
Department of Mechanical Engineering,
Faculty of Engineering
May-July 2013

Japan is a mystery. People work tediously for 14-15 hours a day, but are incredibly happy and friendly. A place known around the world for its superior technology, Japan probably cherishes it wonderful culture over any technology.

The research in Japan is quite intense with research groups actively competing against each other to bring forward results. Researchers typically work long hours, write papers, present their work and keep dong the same for a long period of time. However in the midst of reports and emails from their guides, the members of my lab always found time to have fun. From ‘Yukata’ Parties to weekend Mahjong, everyone engaged themselves in some form of entertainment. I being the foreigner got a slice of everything! The joy of learning Mahjong and then beating some of the pros was a cherish able moment.
Japanese culture is ancient with a modern touch. The depth and beauty of Japanese traditional items like the Hakata Dolls and the Samurai’s Katana has left a lasting imprint on my mind.
If you like travelling then Japan would probably offer you the ultimate challenge. With vast array of tourist spots from the Disneyland in Tokyo to the Hot springs in Beppu, you will have to make the tough choice to skip visiting some extremely beautiful places. Among all my trips, visiting Nagasaki was probably the most special. With its history, it was a place I was looking forward to go for a long time. The peaceful nature of the people and the brilliant natural scenery was captivating.
Choosing to carry out an internship in Japan was probably one of my most fruitful decisions. Having visited and interned in several countries in the past, I can assure you that Japan will offer you
July 2013
something that nothing else can give. In the end I feel quite satisfied; successful in scraping the shell of this beautiful mystery.